Property managers generally have a lot on their plate. They have to ensure that all tenants remain satisfied so as to improve tenant-retention. Property managers also have to go out of their way to make sure that tenants are safe, live in clean complexes and have no problems with the amenities.

In fact, property managers often regularly communicate with the tenants about any issues, questions, and repairs. Being a property manager is not easy since you have to deal with all types of people, manage issues and ensure everything is up and running.

Here are some tips on how you can help your property manager better manage your property:

1. Hand in Property in Move-in Condition:

When you hand over the property, ensure that it is clean, empty and ready to move-in. The way you maintain your property will set an example as to how you expect the property manager and the future tenant to maintain it as well.

2. Ensure Everything Works:

Make sure that all appliances and fixtures in the property are fully functional. If the plumbing leaks, the faucet drips or the light bulb is not working, get it fixed before the tenant moves in. Do not attempt to hide any broken fixtures as it will only project negatively on you and delay the new tenant's occupancy. Also, it is frustrating for all parties involved if the tenant starts to have issues right after moving in.

3. Remove All Personal Property:

When you leave, take all your personal belongings with you. No one wants to deal with your toys, appliances, broken TV etc. Walk around the home and if there are items you do not want, dispose of them but do not leave them there for the property manager to deal with.

Plus, if you leave something behind and come back later to pick it, it may already have been discarded. It’s best to avoid such a situation as the last thing the property manager wants is a conflict between you and the new tenant. The bottom line is that everything that belongs to you must be removed beforehand.

4. Clean the Place:

All properties show signs of wear and tear with age but you should ensure that the property is absolutely clean. Get the carpets professionally cleaned and make sure the bedrooms, kitchens, bathrooms etc. are all neat and tidy.

5. Healthy Walls:

Walls can really make a difference to the property. They don’t need to be freshly painted but they should look decent. The worse the walls, the more difficult it will be to rent the property. Keep in mind that dirty walls and holes in walls can really put prospective tenants off.

6. Keep all Utilities On:

When you’re trying to find a tenant, showings can be scheduled anytime. Make sure the lights work, the toilets flush and the sink works. Heating and air-conditioning should also be functional.

7. Complete all Forms and Documents:

This works both ways. The owner should complete all required documentation and submit it to the property manager. Similarly, no property should be rented out before receiving all necessary paperwork from the tenant.

8. Provide Complete Information:

Give the property manager all necessary information. This includes things like the location of the water shut-off, the size of the air filters, whether there is a propane tank or not and other similar information.

9. Provide Copies of HOA Rules and Requirements:

Copies of HOA rules and requirements should be passed onto the tenant. If you fail to do so, you should not blame the tenant for breaking those rules because you never told them anything anyway.

10. Contact Information:

Make sure the property manager has your current contact information. This includes your address, phone number, and email address.

The strategies outlined above can go a long way in establishing a long-term relationship with your property manager and ensuring that they do their job right. This, in turn, will result in tenants who are happy where they live and are likely to continue living there for a long period of time.

Property managers have to juggle many issues simultaneously. By helping them in any way you can, you make their jobs simpler and your investment stronger.